Leucocyte capillary migration: an adherence dependent phenomenon

Abstract

To determine the mode of action of leucocyte inhibitory factor (LIF) on polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMN) migration out of capillary tubes, this phenomenon has been compared with PMN adhesion to cotton wool columns. Colchicine and vinblastine sulphate had no effect on either of these processes but cytochalasin B caused marked inhibition of PMN migration and increased PMN adhesion. The cytochalasin B effect could be reversed in the presence of drugs known to increase intracellular levels of cyclic AMP. For inhibition of PMN migration by LIF, Mg2+ but not Ca2+ was essential. LIF not only inhibited PMN migration but also increased PMN adhesion to cotton wool columns. LIF inhibitory activity on PMN migration was not affected by colchicine or vinblastine. Leucocyte migration and adhesion depend on similar mechanisms, and are both influenced by LIF which probably acts by affecting micro-filament function.